In the year 1965, Graham Staines arrived in India, a country that could not have foreseen the profound historical change he would initiate. Nestled in the heart of Odisha, amidst rolling hills, is Anand Niketan, the “Abode of Bliss” — a living testament to the legacy of Graham Staines, whose love persevered even in the face of the darkest tragedy.
Staines, a name deeply engraved in the hearts of the Mayurbhanj tribals, did not come to India as a missionary but as a friend. In a land where leprosy cast shadows of shame and poverty painted the streets, he chose to see beyond the affliction and instead cared for those afflicted.
In 1965, he established Anand Niketan, a sanctuary where the hopeless found solace and the broken were made whole. With gentle hands and open ears, Staines treated both physical and emotional wounds by whispering words of hope and dignity. His impact extended beyond the physical; he mended souls, uplifting the community to the place where laughter replaced despair, and hope flourished where shame had once thrived. Introducing the love of Christ, he portrayed a friend who loves, forgives, and never leaves anyone out.
The Staines’ love for Christ was evident in their work, in how they regarded leprosy patients and tribal communities shunned by society as worthy of love and respect. Their actions reflected an unwavering faith in Christ. It is this faith that inspired Gladys to forgive the men who brutally took the lives of her husband and two sons. “In forgiveness, there is no bitterness and when there is no bitterness, there is hope. This consolation comes from Jesus Christ”, says Gladys. Instead of succumbing to religious hatred, she embraced the spirit of forgiveness, triumphing over hate with love. Her example teaches us how to be true followers of Christ.
It is essential to understand that being a true follower of Christ is not achieved through a change in religion. It can only be realized through a personal relationship with Christ. This relationship, unattainable through forced conversion, involves accepting the same Christ who was a friend to Graham Staines; a savior who runs to those in need, does not exclude anyone, and inspired Gladys Staines to forgive even those who took the lives of her family. By embracing this relationship, one can inherit eternal life.
